Springfield’s director of planning and development, Ralph Rognstad, plans to retire Jan. 23rd after working 27 years for the city.
Rognstad became the department director in September 2003 after serving as assistant director for seven years and principal planner three years before that.
“Ralph’s fingerprints can be found all over this city, as he has worked tirelessly on a wide range of projects that have had a significant impact on the lives of our citizens,” said city manager Greg Burris.
Throughout his career, Rognstad played a major role in the planning of the College Street corridor and development of the Route 66 Roadside Park, establishment of The Link and the creation of the city’s first Captial Improvements Program. He recently worked with residents of the Woodland Heights Neighborhood to create the Moon City Creative District.
“I appreciate all of the great opportunities and experiences I have had working for City the past 27 years,” he said. “I have been able to work with some great people in the Planning and Development Department, as well as the rest of the City departments and the community. Together, I believe we have been able to make Springfield a better place.”
